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US TO PROPOSE NEW RULES FOR AIRLINE CANCELLATIONS, DELAYS
The Biden administration is creating new regulations requiring airlines to compensate air travelers and cover their meals and hotel rooms if they are stranded for reasons within the airline’s control, reports AP News. The compensation would be in addition to ticket refunds when the airline is at fault for a flight being canceled or significantly delayed. It would give US travelers protections similar to those in the European Union. The new rule is the latest in a series of moves by the Biden administration to bolster consumer protections for domestic US flights and international flights involving US destination or origin. “I know how frustrated many of you are with the service you get from your US airlines,” President Biden said. “That’s why our top priority has been to get American air travelers a better deal.” Biden added, “You deserve more than just getting the price of your ticket (refunded) — you deserve to be fully compensated. Your time matters, the impact on your life matters.” Officials at the Department of Transportation (DOT), which will write the new rules, said they don't have a set timeline for the new rule, but indicated they are working to quickly publish a notice that is required to get the process started.
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WHO DECLARES END TO COVID-19 EMERGENCY, URGES LIFTING OF TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared an end to the COVID-19 global health emergency, stating that the pandemic "has been on a downward trend" for more than a year, reports Travel Pulse. Among the temporary recommendations issued by the WHO is that member states continue to lift COVID-19 international travel-related health measures, based on risk assessments, and not require any proof of vaccination against COVID-19 as a prerequisite for international travel. The news comes just days after the US government announced it would end COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international travelers and federal workers on May 11. US Travel Association CEO Geoff Freeman said the move to "lift the vaccine requirement eases a significant entry barrier for many global travelers, moving our industry and country forward."
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MARRIOTT TO INCLUDE RESORT FEES IN TOTAL PRICES, BREAKING NEW GROUND IN SETTLEMENT
Beginning May 15, Marriott International will disclose resort fees in the total prices it displays in its initial search results on its website and mobile app, reports Skift. The move is part of the outcome of a 2021 settlement with Pennsylvania that required Marriott to include in fees in upfront total prices. Marriott is the first of the global hotel groups to make the change, which pertains to extra fees for services and amenities offered during a hotel or resort stay. All other global hotel groups have continued to charge fees for services or amenities at some properties and exclude them from the room rate or bury them in the taxes and fees. “We have been working diligently over the last several months on the technology required to update our room rate display and further enhance the way these fees are disclosed, in accordance with our agreement with the State of Pennsylvania,” a Marriott spokesperson said. It remained uncertain whether other non-resort fees properties may change, such as mandatory fees for non-valet or valet parking, and would be included in Marriott’s updated search results later this month. In February, President Biden called out companies for not disclosing “frustrating charges.” The administration stated that more than one-third of hotel guests claim to have paid such fees.
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UNITED TO TRIPLE SAF USE IN 2023; ADDS SAF ON FLIGHTS AT SFO
United Airlines has announced that it will begin using a blend of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on departing flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO). They are also planning to use a SAF blend later this year at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), which could put the airline on track to use approximately 10 million gallons in 2023, nearly three times more than 2022 and close to 10 times more than 2019. United has invested in the future production of over five billion gallons of SAF, and as a result of their recent announcement, the carrier will fly more miles in 2023 than any airline. The SAF used on United's flights will be paid for in part through the company's Eco-Skies Alliance, a program collectively contributing toward the purchase of nearly 15 million gallons of SAF. With its up to 80% greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions on a lifecycle basis compared to conventional jet fuel, this is enough SAF to reduce approximately 150,000 metric tons of GHG emissions, or enough to fly passengers close to 1 billion miles. United has used SAF blends at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) since 2016 and Schiphol Airport (AMS) in Amsterdam Alliance since 2022 and continues to use SAF at those airports.
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FAA LAYS OUT A BLUEPRINT FOR ACCOMMODATING AIR TAXIS
The FAA has released an updated blueprint for the airspace changes and infrastructure development required to accommodate air taxis, reports Travel Weekly. Electric air taxis are under development by dozens of companies around the world, with some developers targeting launch dates as soon as 2025. Acting FAA administrator Billy Nolen stated that the first electric air taxi certifications are on track to be completed in a few years. The blueprint, developed by the FAA in conjunction with NASA and industry stakeholders, envisions what the authors are calling a "crawl-walk-run" approach to air taxi startup. Initially, air taxi operations will be conducted with new aircraft types that have been certified to fly within the current regulatory and operational environment. They'll fly at low rates, similar to today's helicopters, and use existing helipads and helicopter routes, along with early air taxi vertiports. They'll also communicate with air traffic control towers as needed. Eventually, higher frequency operations will be supported through regulatory changes and air taxi corridors that leverage collaborative technologies. At that time, electric aircraft are expected to fly in corridors between major airports and vertiports in city centers. For example, United has already announced planned air taxi routes to Newark and O'Hare airports from Manhattan and downtown Chicago.
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1001 14TH STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Discover the timeless charm of the Hamilton Hotel, a beloved DC landmark since 1922.
Indulge in the award-winning dining at Via Sophia, the hotel's renowned restaurant, known for its delicious Italian cuisine and warm ambiance. With its beautifully appointed rooms and suites, blending classic elegance with modern comfort, the Hamilton Hotel provides a relaxing haven for travelers after a day of exploring the city.
Stay active at the state-of-the-art fitness center or unwind with a cocktail in the stylish speakeasy bar, Society. The dedicated staff at the Hamilton Hotel are committed to providing exceptional service, ensuring that every guest has a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Experience the rich history, unmatched hospitality, and prime location of the Hamilton Hotel.
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HILTON SANTA MONICA HOTEL AND SUITES | |
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1707 4TH STREET
SANTA MONICA
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Ushering in a fresh new aesthetic and chic destination to the California bucket list city known for its perfect balance of seaside charm and coastal sophistication. Hilton Santa Monica features a rooftop pool with cabanas, a 24-hour fitness center, and a farm-to-table eatery sourcing local & fresh ingredients from around Southern California.
Ovation clients will receive a complimentary suite upgrade based on availability.
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Experience superior service and refinement at Hilton Tampa Downtown. The upscale 520-guestroom recently completed a multi-year, multimillion-dollar property renovation of its public spaces, lobby, and restaurant further enhancing the guest experience. The hotel boasts a contemporary design and sophisticated amenities including a 24/7 fitness center, an outdoor rooftop pool and more than 30,000 square feet of flexible event space.
Complex Executive Chef James King brings his 20 years of culinary skills to 211 Restaurant and Bar, located inside the hotel. Chef King specializes in utilizing local ingredients procured from farm-to and port-to-table while focusing on regional and seasonal inspirations. Chef King’s respect for the integrity of ingredients is reflected in the new spring menu at 211 Restaurant and Bar.
This distinctive hotel located in the city center is steps away from the famous Tampa Riverwalk, Amelia Arena, Tampa Convention Center, and a 15-minute drive from Tampa International Airport (TPA).
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1-8 RUSSELL SQUARE
LONDON
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Kimpton Fitzroy London opened in 2018, occupying a full block along the eastern side of Russell Square in the heart of Bloomsbury. Originally designed by Charles Fitzroy Doll in 1898, the luxurious hotel has 334 bedrooms and suites, and is defined by its elegant late Victorian heritage, while offering all the modern amenities of a contemporary hotel with warm, yet refined service. The landmark building boasts four restaurants and bars: Galvin Bar & Grill, Fitz’s, Burr & Co. and Palm Court, as well as a gym, eight naturally lit meeting and events spaces, and a Grade II-Heritage Listed ballroom.
Kimpton Fitzroy London is the flagship European location for Kimpton Hotels & Resorts (part of the InterContinental Hotel Group) – a leading brand of boutique hotels and restaurants known for its considerate amenities, bold, playful design, and sincerely personal style of service.
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21 EAST 52ND STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Taste The Fresh New Cocktails & Appetizers at Berk’s Bar. Offering a lively atmosphere and a spacious 23-seat bar overlooking 52nd Street, Berk’s Bar plays homage to Manhattan’s gloried past with both classic libations and savory bites. Whether they are looking for a great bar to meet up with friend after work, or a welcoming place to watch a game, Berk’s Bar will not disappoint. There are new cocktails and menu offerings for everyone to indulge in. | |
OMNI BOSTON HOTEL AT THE SEAPORT | |
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Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport offers seven distinct dining experiences, a scenic year-round heated rooftop pool and hot tub, state-of-the-art fitness center, the only full-service luxury spa Breve in the Seaport District and boasts 1054 guest rooms including 52 suites with 100,000 square feet of flexible function space. Located in the center of the bustling Seaport District, it’s steps away from downtown Boston and Boston Harbor and less than three miles from Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS). Whether you are traveling for business or for a weekend getaway in Boston, a meeting room or event space for a conference or a social venue, Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport is sure to meet the needs of the most discerning travelers.
Join Omni’s Loyalty Program, Select Guest, to take advantage of complimentary beverages, upgrades, credits towards free nights, and more.
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6 TIMES SQUARE
NEW YORK CITY
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Voted one of Travel + Leisure’s Best Hotels in the World and a top hotel in NYC by Condé Nast Traveler, The Knickerbocker is a legendary landmark reborn. Contemporary style meets the glamour of the Gilded Age amid dazzling views high above 42nd Street and Broadway, while serene guest rooms and suites offer perfect respite from the energy of Times Square.
All accommodations boast lavish marble bathrooms and cutting-edge technologies. Chef Charlie Palmer redefines the Midtown Manhattan restaurant scene with unrivaled dining options in an iconic setting, from the hotel’s signature restaurant, Charlie Palmer at The Knick, to the unforgettable St. Cloud rooftop bar, located just 150 feet below the Times Square ball.
The birthplace of the original martini and host to early 20th Century icons like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Enrico Caruso, The Knickerbocker is the original purveyor of the luxury lifestyle experience in New York City.
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GBT Travel Services UK Limited (GBT UK) and its authorized sublicensees (including Ovation Travel Group and Egencia) use certain trademarks and service marks of American Express Company or its subsidiaries (American Express) in the “American Express Global Business Travel” and “American Express Meetings & Events” brands and in connection with its business for permitted uses only under a limited license from American Express (Licensed Marks). The Licensed Marks are trademarks or service marks of, and the property of, American Express. GBT UK is a subsidiary of Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE: GBTG). American Express holds a minority interest in GBTG, which operates as a separate company from American Express. | | | | |
